Will Muschamp‘s job may be safe, but at least one of his assistants has found himself on the coaching unemployment line.
The Associated Press’ Mark Long is reporting that offensive coordinator Brent Pease has been fired, one day after a dismal 4-8 season came to a merciful end. Long reported that Pease met with Muschamp at 11 this morning and was notified of the decision to go in a different direction.
Florida is expected to officially announce Pease’s departure this afternoon. There could be additional changes on the offensive staff as well.
Pease, who will be owed $1.2 million for the remainder of his contract, was in his second season as the Gators’ coordinator after replacing Charlie Weis. UF’s offense was simply miserable in 2013, making Pease’s departure inevitable.
This year, the Gators finished the regular season T-111th at 18.8 points per game, 112th in total offense at 316.7 yards per game and 107th in passing offense at 170.9 yards per game.
In which direction Muschamp will turn is unknown, but it would behoove him to make a quality hire who can make an immediate impact on his moribund offense. If Muschamp can’t get the offense turned around, and if his tenure continues on its current trajectory, it will be Coach Boom who finds himself looking for a new job at some point in 2014.
UPDATED 2:51 p.m. ET: In a press release, Florida confirmed that offensive coordinator Brent Pease “will not return for the 2014 season.” Additionally, offensive line coach Tim Davis was dismissed.
“I have a lot of respect for Coach Pease and Coach Davis,” said head coach Will Muschamp in a statement. “They are both good football coaches and even better people. There have been a lot of unfortunate circumstances this year, but that is part of the game sometimes. I want to thank each of them for their contributions to the program both on and off the field.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to come to the University of Florida and work with a bunch of great coaches, administrative staff and players,” said Pease.” I know we came up short of our ultimate goal, but I will carry on knowing I gained valuable friendships and relationships during my time here.”